Fans of ITV's hit show The Masked Singer were left scratching their heads after the broadcaster announced a sudden, last-minute change to its Saturday evening schedule.
Unexpected Time Shift Causes Confusion
In a social media post on Saturday, January 3, ITV revealed that the premiere of the new series would now air at 6:40pm, a ten-minute delay from its originally advertised 6:30pm slot. The unexpected announcement prompted a flurry of reactions from viewers. Some expressed concern, with one asking on social media if there had been a power outage at Television Centre. Another pointed out other adjustments, noting an extended news bulletin at 4pm.
Other fans took a more humorous view of the late change. One person joked that the show was running late because "somebody had to go home as they forgot their mask," while another thanked ITV for the update, saying they thought they would miss the first ten minutes.
A New Series with a Fresh Twist
The beloved entertainment programme, where celebrities perform in elaborate disguises while a panel tries to guess their identities, is back for another run. The judging panel, featuring Davina McCall, Jonathan Ross, Maya Jama, and Mo Gilligan, will once again attempt to unmask the singing stars.
This series introduces a brand-new format twist from the very start. For the first time, the opening two episodes will feature a full musical group in costume. The panel's challenge will be to identify not just the group, but specifically the lead singer. The action kicks off with Goldfish, accompanied by their group No Trout, followed by Emperor Penguin and the Antarctic Funkeys in the subsequent episode.
Energy and 'Substantial' Unmaskings Promised
Host Joel Dommett discussed the innovative change, stating, "We've never done it before and it just gives it so much energy in the room." He emphasised that identifying the lead singer adds an extra layer of mystery. Dommett also teased that the first two unmaskings of the series are "pretty substantial."
Throughout the series, the judges will work to uncover 12 other disguised celebrities. This year's colourful line-up of characters includes Moth, Can of Worms, Red Panda, Conkers, Arctic Fox, Toastie, Monkey Business, Yak, Sloth, Gargoyle, Disc Jockey, and Teabag.
The new series follows the victory of West End star Samantha Barks, who won the previous competition while hidden inside the Pufferfish costume. The Masked Singer returned to ITV1 and ITVX at 6.40pm on Saturday, January 3.
